Tainted Pact: The Path to Creative Freedom

Developing games independently requires immense passion and self-motivation, and for Michael Cosio, founder of Tainted Pact Games, it’s a journey fueled by creative freedom.

“What drew me to game development was the freedom to create whatever comes to my mind,” Michael shares. “I want to craft my own worlds, characters, and narratives without constraints—except for the limits of my own abilities.”

Staying focused while managing every aspect of game development is no small feat. Michael emphasizes the importance of breaking large projects into manageable tasks. “Having a clear vision and drive keeps me focused, and by dividing the project into smaller tasks, I avoid feeling overwhelmed,” he explains.

From Hobbyist Beginnings to Professional Passion

Like many indie developers, Michael started as a hobbyist, honing his skills through passion projects. “I began my journey making custom maps for the original Starcraft as a kid,” he recalls. What started as a childhood pastime grew into a full-fledged career.

“As I became an adult, I studied computer science and game design, eventually earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science. After that, I never looked back,” Michael says, reflecting on his transition from hobbyist to professional developer.

Refining the Craft: An Evolving Approach

Michael’s development philosophy has evolved significantly since his early projects. He describes a steep learning curve during the initial stages of his career. “At first, understanding how to properly make, optimize, and package a project into an actual playable game was incredibly challenging,” he notes.

Experience has brought both confidence and structure to his process. “Now, my approach is much more strategic, allowing me to focus on the design side of things,” he explains. This shift enables him to channel his creativity into building engaging gameplay experiences.

Facing the Challenges of Solo Development

The life of a solo developer isn’t without its hurdles. Michael candidly describes the difficulties of juggling multiple roles. “I’m responsible for programming, art, sound, narrative, marketing, and more,” he says. “Early on, I underestimated how hard it would be to balance all these tasks, which often led to frustration.”

Through trial and error, Michael developed strategies to manage these demands. “I learned to focus on one aspect of the game at a time, setting clear milestones. This approach has helped me work more efficiently and avoid burnout,” he shares.

He also highlights the importance of maintaining a realistic scope. “As a solo developer, I’ve learned to keep my scope tight and prioritize the core features that make the game fun,” Michael explains.

Balancing Creativity and Technical Expertise

Striking a balance between creativity and technical demands is another critical aspect of Michael’s process. “Both aspects—creative and technical—are equally essential for bringing a game to life,” he says.

While he enjoys all aspects of game development, certain elements hold a special place in his heart. “Level design, crafting cutscenes, and music creation are some of my favorites,” Michael reveals. “But as long as I’m being creative, the process is enjoyable.”

To bridge the gap between vision and execution, Michael leans on prototyping. “Creating prototypes early on helps translate the ideas in my head into practical gameplay,” he adds.

A Look at What’s Next

Michael's latest release, Massacre At The Mirage, hit Steam on October 28th to positive acclaim, solidifying his status as a standout in indie game development. This indie horror game channels the essence of '80s slasher films, immersing players in a haunted cinema where the constant threat of a masked killer looms.

Before that, Terror at Oakheart, captivated players (including myself) with its own twist on the '80s horror genre. It's a pixel-art side-scroller that immerses you in the eerie town of Oakheart, where you encounter Teddy, a killer influenced by a Lovecraftian force, in a tale of survival wrapped in the nostalgia of '80s horror movies.

Looking ahead, Michael is already immersed in his next project, Flesh and Fear. Inspired by early Resident Evil and Silent Hill titles, the game offers a nostalgic survival horror experience with a PSX-style aesthetic. “I’ve been having a blast making assets for it,” he shares, brimming with enthusiasm.